We spoke to a few people about coming out and how to support others who are still “in the closet.” Here are their suggestions:

- Be open to the conversation.

- Say supportive things and share how happy you are for that person.

- Re-confirm that this doesn't change how you feel about that person.

- Don’t share details of the conversation with others without permission.

- Make it a common thing to ask people their pronouns so not to alienate people who identify with different pronouns.

- As an act of solidarity, consider adding your pronouns to your social media bios and email signatures.

After speaking with an ally of the community whose sister recently came out as Pansexual, (“Not limited in sexual choice with regard to biological sex, gender, or gender identity.”) Brooke explained that when her sister came out she “was shocked but I also knew that everyone has their preferences and it doesn't bother me.” She explained that “encouraging her [sister] to get out and meet others in the LGBT+ community is important and opening up with [my] sister about my own preferences will help destigmatize the conversation.” To both of the sisters' surprise, Brooke claims that, “This actually brought [her] and [her] sister closer.”

Not only did her sister come out as pansexual, but her best friend of 16 years had come out as lesbian. “When my best friend sat me down and came out to me I was overjoyed and happy for her because that in itself is a big thing to come out about and speak to those closest to you. I want her to be happy.”

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Written by Maggie Rose

This article has been republished from Renewed Awareness Magazine.